IPL 2025: No More Free Live Cricket Streaming? JioHotstar Shares New Tariff Plans

Fans of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) will now need to pay at least ₹149 for a subscription to watch matches on JioHotstar. This change marks the end of free streaming for IPL games. The new platform, JioHotstar, emerged from the merger of Viacom18 and Star India, forming JioStar. It was launched after combining JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar.

JioStar offers nearly 3 lakh hours of entertainment and live sports coverage to over 50 crore users. However, its hybrid subscription model means cricket fans across India will lose some privileges. Previously, JioCinema provided free IPL streaming since acquiring rights in 2023 for $3 billion. Starting in 2025, viewers must pay based on their needs to watch full matches.

Subscription Plans and Features

The joint venture's streaming service is available on a rebranded app with a basic plan starting at ₹149 ($1.72). An ad-free version costs ₹499 ($5.75) for three months. JioHotstar hosts major tournaments like ICC events, IPL, and WPL. It also covers grassroots cricket through the Indian Street Premier League and pathway events from BCCI, ICC, and state associations.

Beyond cricket, it showcases global sports like the Premier League and Wimbledon while supporting domestic leagues such as Pro Kabaddi and ISL. "What sets JioHotstar apart is its elevated streaming experience - featuring ultra-HD 4K streaming, AI-powered insights, real-time stats overlays, multi-angle viewing and range of 'culture' and 'special interest' feeds - ensuring fans enjoy deeper, more immersive access to the sports they love," stated the company in an official release.

Impact of Merger

The decision to alter IPL streaming terms follows a merger between Mukesh Ambani's Reliance and Walt Disney's India media assets last year worth $8.5 billion. According to Reuters, fans can only watch a few minutes of an IPL match without subscribing before being directed to a subscription page with plans starting at ₹149.

A source told Reuters that once users develop loyalty by watching free content initially, subscriptions will activate later. Each user's subscription may start at different times. The sources remained anonymous due to confidentiality concerns. Reliance did not respond to requests for comment.

Market Competition

The Reliance-Disney venture operates over 100 TV channels and streaming apps in India's $28-billion media market. It competes with platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime among others.